8:16 PM,
Nov. 7, 2013

From left, Samuel Smith's Organic Cider and Organic Chocolate Stout.

Written by

Katrina Raenell
kraenell@rgj.com

It seems counter-intuitive, but when the cold weather arrives, I like nothing more than warming up with full-bodied brews. There's something festive and comforting in partaking in a draught of dark ale, a spiced cider or a thick-headed, rich porter.

I recently discovered a couple of English brews that have quickly skyrocketed to the top of my fall and winter favorites: Samuel Smith's Organic Chocolate Stout and the Organic Cider, each $5. Not overly sweet or heavy, they are made from organic ingredients and processed at the oldest independent British brewery in Yorkshire, England.